LIEUTENANT KIRBY McELHEARN MEDAL

Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn probably is best remembered for his knowledge of and interest in the communications field. During his tenure as an EMS Communications Tour Supervisor, Lieutenant McElhearn was instrumental in assisting in the research and development and subsequent implementation and operation of one of the first EMS Field Communications Units. The Field Communications Unit (FieldComm) was designed to respond directly to the scenes of multiple-casualty incidents and special events to coordinate EMS resources via dedicated radio frequencies, freeing up regular dispatch operations to focus on other 911 emergencies. Lieutenant McElhearn’s vision and dedication to this project led to the development of an innovative and highly advanced FieldComm unit which, at the time, quickly became the flagship communications vehicle within the City of New York. In honor of his commitment to bringing the project to fruition, the vehicle proudly bore his badge number as its vehicle number. Today, we continue to honor his memory and dedication in the Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal. There is a $400 bond (split among recipients), donated by Paul Sanner. —Sponsored by the Lieutenants and Captains Union

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